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Family Support

The Rural Medical Family Network

The RMFN was created by the spouses of members of the RDAV. It is an independent organization and receives funds from the Federal and State Governments. It has a staff member who has an office in the RWAV. Presidents of RMFNs sit together on a National Committee which shares information between the States.

Aim

The aim of the organization is to assist families of doctors to make rural residence easier and for children, spouses and partners to have fulfilled and happy rural lives. Various programs are operated to achieve this.

There are a number of representatives dotted around the country and the aim is to have an active member in each larger town or groups of smaller towns. Get-togethers are organised. Ideally local representatives assist the local Division to organize family matters.

Larger educational events should always have an organised family component so that all can attend, enjoy themselves, and have some productive activity.

It is a good idea for both doctors and spouses to interest themselves in whether the other's organisation is functioning properly.
How Does RMFN Support New Families?

In terms of families, it often takes quite a lot of organisation to support newly arrived families. This more than anything will help the doctor stay on in the town. From the very beginning you need to be visiting and supporting the family. In time it becomes unnecessary and families can go under their own steam. Successful towns manage to do this.

It's always important to give support to the religious and cultural identity of overseas medical families and to make sure that these are catered for during any events organised.

The organisation can be contacted:

Website: http://www.rmfn-vic.com/

Gina Lambe
Rural Medical Family Network
458 Swanston Street
Carlton Victoria 3053

Phone (+61 3) 9349 7800
Fax (+61 3) 9349 4211
Email Address: rmfn@rwav.com.au


President:
Amber Moynihan
Phone: 03 5033 1870